Blackthorn: Straif

By S.F. Skyheart - September 5, 2024

The names of the Celtic tree months come from some of the letters of the Ogham. The Ogham is an ancient alphabet believed to have originated in the 4th century (possibly as early as the 1st) in what is now the southwest region of Ireland.

The Celtic month of Blackthorn, September 5 - October 2, is associated with:

Ogham: Straif – (strafe) represents negativity, negation, cleansing, and protection.

Straif is similar to Ngetal, in that it helps us recognize and clear negativity. Straif often does this through a disruption of stagnant habits, patterns, or routines, which helps us grow by forcing us to address it head on in order to find solutions. But there is a deeper opportunity for growth if we don't just problem-solve on the surface level.

Straif presents us with a therapeutic opportunity that can help us process a recurring or even generational challenge. Consider the present situation, and then think about any significant past situations in which the same type of problem or feelings occurred. If it helps to find the connection, simply list the top 3-5 conflicts in your life. They may seem unrelated, but if you think about how you felt in those situations, there may be a connection that can be made and explored. Obviously, this may be something to begin on your own and then process with the help of a licensed mental health professional.

As I discuss with Ngetal, boundaries are key here. Straif energy helps us recognize a pattern, and especially if that pattern has been saying Yes when our plate is full, it helps us begin to say No. Conserve our energy. Clear out that which is sucking up all of our resources and taking advantage of our "nice-ness" aka past people-pleasing to feel loved and appreciated. If our pattern has been to frequently be on the defensive, seeing nearly everything as an attack, Straif can help us get out of our own way. It can assist us in opening up our hearts, and steer us away from the misperception that everyone is against us. Basically, Straif helps us have healthy boundaries where we had none, and where we has walls that didn't allow any help or love in.

Do what lights you up,
Sadie

Please note: Some people start the tree calendar with Birch in January, which follows the solar calendar. However, I learned them in an older tradition, which aligns with the 13-month lunar calendar. It's up to you to discern what feels right for you, of course.

About the author

S.F. Skyheart

Author of The Recollection of Trees book series. Fifth generation intuitive. Kitchen witch. she/her.

My blog is meant for inspirational and entertainment purposes only.

Content is intended to be welcoming and respectful of all people regardless of race, ethnicity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or spiritual beliefs.

I do not consent to or approve of the misuse of my content in association with white supremacy, racial elitism, nationalism, or any other form of extremism. Any such ignorance has nothing to do with my ancestors, my spiritual journey, nor any of my sources (historical, spiritual, cultural, archaeological). I condemn these divisive, harmful groups and their false claims about runes, ogham, or any other symbols discussed in my writings.